Cincinnati outside linebacker Vontaze Burfict celebrates tackling running back Felix Jones for a loss during the Bengals' game against the Pittsburgh Steelers earlier this season.

Written by

Jarrett Bell
USA Today

Asking a football player on game day whether he can play through an injury can be a lot like asking a classroom of children if they want an extended recess.

It's a no-brainer; of course he will tell you he can play.

Yet somebody had to ask Vontaze Burfict. And two hours before the Cincinnati Bengals were set for a matchup against one of the NFL's hottest quarterbacks, doubt lingered as coach Marvin Lewis questioned the star linebacker, who was hobbling with a sprained ankle. ...